County EMS paramedic Matt Adams scores big at dual-state competition

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Charleston County Government announces that EMS paramedic Matt Adams placed first in a written competition among his peers from other agencies in South Carolina and North Carolina. Adams, who has been with the County’s EMS for five years, took the top honor at the 17th Annual Carolina Competition on Oct. 25 and 26 in Jacksonville, N.C.

The written competition is a 75-question, multiple choice exam that must be completed in 45 minutes. Questions cover anatomy, physiology, cardiology, medication calculations and treatments regarding specific disease processes.

“It was an honor to be recognized among so many experienced health care professionals,” said Adams, who grew up on James Island and now resides on Johns Island. “I have always enjoyed the opportunity to challenge myself. While paramedics utilize this information every day, competitions like this provide us the chance to refine our strengths and improve upon our weaknesses.”

While the written test is an optional part of the competition, this year’s event saw 100 percent participation for only the second time in its 17-year history. Certifications among the 18 competitors range from Advanced EMT’s to Critical Care Paramedics.

“The written exam is extremely challenging and optional, so not many attempt it. Matt was Charleston County’s first paramedic to try, so we are thrilled that he came in first,” said Don Lundy, Charleston County EMS Director.

This isn’t the first time Charleston County EMS proved successful during the competition. The department won the skills competition in 1997 and 2007, and has placed in the top four teams six times since the competition began.

“The Carolina Competition has become the yardstick by which all other E.M.S. Competitions are measured, as is evidenced by the numerous team entries from both of the Carolinas,” Lundy said. “A challenging, thought-provoking, fair experience for all team members is guaranteed and provides an excellent learning opportunity.”

For more information on the Carolina Competition, including the history, rules, sponsors and photos of previous competitions, visit http://www.thecarolinacompetition.com/index.html.

For more information on Charleston County EMS, visit http://www.charlestoncounty.org/Departments/EMS/index.htm.

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